Prion proteins are misfolded proteins that can induce other normal proteins in the brain to also misfold. This process leads to the accumulation of abnormal proteins, which can cause severe damage to brain tissue and result in neurodegenerative diseases. Examples of these diseases include Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease and mad cow disease. Unlike bacteria or viruses, prions do not contain genetic material, making them unique infectious agents. They are resistant to standard methods of sterilization and can persist in the environment for long periods. Understanding prion proteins is crucial for developing treatments and preventive measures against prion-related diseases.